Prepare tomorrow’s parents: become a ‘Pregnancy Pal’ or ‘Birth Buddy’

Calling all experienced parents! Could you offer a listening ear, essential advice and support to Derby’s future Mummies and Daddies?

Derby Integrated Family Health Service – a 0-19 children’s and family service run in partnership by the NHS and Ripplez – is searching for local people who have parenting or similar experience to be part of its new and exciting peer-support programme, which gives other parents expecting a new baby a helping hand to take care of themselves and their new-born.

Having a baby should be a thrilling life changing event for any parent. Though, sadly this is not the case for every parent. By offering free, friendly and informal support the Derby Community Parent Programme aims to assist parents to give their babies the best possible start in life.

What does volunteering involve?

As a volunteer ‘Pregnancy Pal’ or ‘Birth Buddy’, you will be provided with full and accredited training in order to equip you with the skills required to offer regular one-to-one home visits to expectant parents on request. You will also have the chance to take part in activities to reach isolated parents-to-be in the local community.

Parents describe their peer supporter as “someone in their corner” who walks the journey with them through pregnancy, birth and the early months after the birth. Support can be offered at home, in the community and in hospital to:

Enable pregnant women to keep well and feel supported

Help parents to prepare for the birth and have a positive birth experience

Encourage parents-to-be to prepare for the changes ahead

Build parents’ confidence to cope well and get to know their baby.

‘Pregnancy Pals’ and ‘Birth Buddies’ are not expected to:

Take the place of family, friends or professionals

Carry out clinical tasks

Give medical advice.

No formal qualifications are required! All volunteers will receive accredited training and on-going support by Derby Integrated Family Health Service. All ‘Pregnancy Pals’ and ‘Birth Buddies’ must reside in Derby.

Interested?

If you or any of your friends or family would like to apply or find out more about this fulfilling opportunity, please email ripcic.dcpp@nhs.net